Lot 41: Bentley TURBO R

Making its first appearance at the Geneva Salon in 1982, the Turbo version of the Bentley Mulsanne was to restore the high performance image of the marque. It certainly raised a few eyebrows as, its leviathan proportions notwithstanding, the car would sprint from 060mph in around 8 seconds and on to a top speed of 135mph. Three years later, the Turbo R was to continue this theme and featured a number of improvements to this imposing sports saloon. Finally, after years of refusal to disclose power outputs, the company stated that 320bhp was produced by this superlative engine with its Garret AirResearch turbocharger.A 1989 example, strikingly finished in Vermillion Red and trimmed with Magnolia hide with red piping, this Turbo R is understood to have covered around 80,000 miles and is offered with extensive service history. Reported to be in good condition throughout mechanically and of pleasing appearance, it has been in the hands of its current custodian for the past ten years and is now offered for sale due to the acquisition of a new Bentley GT.